Portuguese Coastal Camino - Baiona to Santiago Rambler

Make your own way to Baiona and check in to your hotel. If you have time take a walk around the town with its medieval centre, situated on the Vigo Bay. On a clear day you should be able to see the Cies islands. Its best streets are set around the bay next to the mouth of Miñor River. It was here that Pinzón's La Pinta moored in 1493, the first caravel to reach port after the voyage of discovery to the New World. Sunset from Monterreal Fort and its famous Príncipe Tower (where the parador is located) should not be missed.

As you leave Baiona you will walk alongside sandy beaches for most of the day. There are plenty of opportunities to take a break at a seaside cafe along the way. From Oia on the Ria de Vigo (estuary) there will be a transfer back to Baiona and your hotel.. Distance 16km/10m, highest point approx 60m

Transfer back to Oia then continue on foot along the estuary. Later you will arrive in Vigo, a typical Galician town with a wide sandy beach. Walking along the harbour you'll arrive at your hotel for the night. Overnight Vigo. Vigo's old quarter is home to the neoclassical Church of Santa María and the nearby archaeological site of Castro de Vigo has reconstructed ancient dwellings. Distance 10.7 km/6.7mi, highest point approx 40m

The route as you leave Vigo is mainly uphill, and you'll be rewarded with spectacular views of the city and harbour. Continue onto a plateau before descending into Redondela. Enjoy your final steps on the Coastal Route - at Redondela you join the main Portuguese (central) Camino. Redondela has a rich natural and cultural heritage and some lovely beaches including Cesantes. Distance 16km/10mi, highest point approx 160m

Walking from Redondela you are now on the main Portuguese Camino route. It's a short walk to Arcade, a nice quiet town on the Atlantic coast which is known for its oysters. In early April there is an oyster festival (can be very busy). Arcade has charming old stone houses set on green hills and tranquil bays. Its arched bridge spans the River Verdugo and dates from Roman and medieval times. Stroll the cobblestone streets and narrow lanes through old neighbourhoods where many homes still have traditional 'horreos' (granaries). Time permitting, there is a castle out of town, Soutomaior, dating from the 12th century, and a winery nearby. There are are also several beaches and small coves, perfect for swimming (weather permitting). Overnight Arcade. Distance 9km/5.6mi, highest point approx 160m

You start the day by walking over the beautiful old bridge of Ponte Sampaio at the mouth of the river Verdugo. The bridge is famous for having been the scene of the last battle in Galicia against Napoleon’s army during the War of Independence. From here there's a short uphill stretch following ancient stone paths before the trail descends to the provincial capital of Pontevedra. There are some interesting sites to be explored here including the Santuario da Peregrin chapel and the Convento de San Francisco. The medieval town centre is a maze of cobbled laneways with tapas bars and cafes. Overnight in Pontevedra Distance 12.3km/7.7mi, highest point approx 140m

Most of this stage is through woodland and countryside along gentle river valleys with virtually no climbing. Overnight is usually in a 'casa rural' in the village of Outeiro. Distance: 11km/6.9mi, highest point approx 100m

Today's route takes you through typical villages, offering a mix of cultural and natural heritage. Approx midway through the stage, you can visit the waterfalls of the Barosa River Natural Park (1km round trip). Near to Caldas de Reis the route crosses the N550 and follows this road for short sections. Located between the Umia and Bermana rivers, Caldas de Reis is known for its thermal waters. The botanical gardens next to the river offer a lovely respite from the walk. Overnight Caldas de Reis. Option to upgrade to a comfortable 4 star inn with pool or 3 star rural inn - supplement applies and must be requested when initially booking the trip. Note transfers are required for the rural inn option - additional cost applies. Distance 12km/7.5mi, highest point approx 60m

Today's walk is more undulating, with moderate gradients, past fields, forests and small villages. Enjoy a beautiful walk through the Bermana river valley then the path descends into the Valga valley. There are two short stages of main road: leaving Caldas and entering Padron. Herbón, a small village belonging to the municipality of Padrón, is where the famous "Pimientos de Padrón" are grown. Padron town is lovely, set on the banks of the Sar and Ulla rivers. Igrexa de Santiago (church) is a significant site on the Camino - the "Pedron" (mooring stone) is on display under the altar. Overnight in Padron. Distance 18.7km/11.7mi, highest point approx 140m

Breaking the long walk to Santiago allows you to enjoy your arrival there, and staying in a small town with a lovely hotel allows time to reflect on your journey so far. Distance 12km/7.7mi, highest point approx 100m

The final day takes you through pine, oak and eucalyptus wood, following a mainly paved path. There is a gradual climb to Agro dos Monteiros in O Milladoiro and further along, another to reach Santiago. Closer to Santiago the route follows some sections of main road. Overnight in Santiago. Own dinner arrangements. Distance 13km/8.1mi, highest point approx 240m

Trip arrangements conclude after breakfast. If you'd like to stay an extra night in Santiago please ask for our rates.